US wholesale prices for lobster meat moved higher as supply constraints remained bullish while frozen tails remained full steady in week 2, 2025, according to Undercurrent News' assessment published on Wednesday (Jan. 8).

It was more about need and inventory assessment for both buyers and sellers in the warm water tail market in the first full trading week of the year. 

Origin appears to be the largest determinant in overseas pricing. Production in the Bahamas is strong, potentially providing importers with some negotiating strength. Nicaragua and Honduras is starting to get better as well after a below average start to the season. 

Demand is moderately active and will likely be the determining factor in pricing. Prime sizes are still the main focus of buyers currently and more balanced. 

Coldwater tails

While there were no changes again this week, supply constraints are the driving factor to a fully steady to firm tone in the market. The available inventory must last until the new season. While quality has improved on the live side, prices have moved higher for raw material. There is limited processing happening still.   

Meat

With inventory limited and replacement far away, buyers needed to get competitive this week for available product that is held with confidence. Premiums developed on CK, CKL and Broken this week. The market is still characterized as firm.